Hitscan: What is Hitscan in FPS Games?


“Hitscan” describes a type of weapon or ability that checks instantly if a shot lands the moment you fire. Unlike projectile weapons, where bullets or objects travel through the air and take time to hit their target, hitscan weapons skip that entirely—there’s no waiting, no arc, just an immediate result.
When you pull the trigger with a hitscan weapon, the game quickly checks if your crosshair is right on an enemy. If it is, the shot hits instantly. That’s what makes hitscan so precise—there’s no need to guess where the enemy will be or adjust for bullet speed. It’s especially handy when trying to land shots on quick or faraway opponents.
Hitscan vs Projectile: Which One’s Better?
When it comes to hitscan versus projectile weapons—especially in games like Overwatch—there’s no clear winner across the board. It really comes down to how you play, the situation you’re in, and which hero you’re using.
Hitscan weapons are great for their instant accuracy. As soon as you shoot, the game checks if you hit, no matter the distance, which makes them super reliable for picking off targets fast. Projectile weapons, though, bring a different kind of challenge. You often need to lead your shots and predict enemy movement, but in return, you might get splash damage, which can hit multiple enemies or deal damage even if you’re a little off target. Both styles have their place, and the best choice usually depends on what the moment calls for.
Which Heroes Use Hitscan in Overwatch 2?
In Overwatch 2, a number of heroes rely on hitscan weapons, which makes them ideal for landing precise shots and taking out enemies fast. These heroes are especially strong when it comes to consistent aim and quick reactions. Here are a few hitscan users you’ll often see:
- McCree’s main attack is hitscan—his revolver dishes out solid damage, especially at mid to long range.
- Soldier: 76 comes equipped with a hitscan pulse rifle. He’s known for being a reliable, all-around damage dealer who can handle just about any situation.
- Widowmaker uses a hitscan sniper rifle that lets her pick off enemies from a distance with deadly accuracy.
- Ashe fights with a semi-auto rifle called the Viper. It’s hitscan as well, letting skilled players land quick, precise shots in rapid succession.
- Baptiste also uses hitscan for his primary fire, a three-round burst rifle. That gives him the flexibility to both heal his team and deal damage effectively at the same time.
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